Auxiliary Patents (Class 42/72)
  • Patent number: 8196328
    Abstract: A compact and foldable survival tool includes a firearm including a trigger and safety lever with many unique features including a compact and folding survival tool with an easy-to-manufacture top strap, a rack and pinion hammer actuator, dual lasers for distress signaling and target and ranging sighting, reconfigurable multiple tools, contained child-safety lock system, folding trigger with safety lever, cam hammer lock, floating firing pin, and cylinder pin assembly positive cylinder lock, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventor: Ronald D. Simpkins
  • Publication number: 20120117844
    Abstract: The invention includes a secondary grip for a rifle or for another shoulder firearm, such as a muzzleloader. This secondary grip is permanently or temporarily attached or affixed to the firearm to improve stability or control when aiming the firearm. Some embodiments disclose a stacked back secondary grip that attaches in vertical alignment with the barrel. Alternate embodiments disclose a secondary grip at a 90 degree angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventor: Douglas Sweet
  • Patent number: 8146282
    Abstract: A firearm may have a plurality of power-consuming accessories that can be attached to the weapon. In order to reduce the weight of these power-consuming accessories, as well as the proliferation of their batteries, the Weapons Accessory Power Distribution System provides a common power source to power the power-consuming accessories attached to the weapon. One or more powered rails are provided on the handguard, which encircles the barrel of the weapon, to provide a point of mechanical and electrical interconnection for the power-consuming accessories to provide quick connect mounting and dismounting of the power-consuming accessory, absent the use of connectors with their tethering cables, which are susceptible to entanglement. The powered rail(s) are electrically interconnected with a power source, which typically is a battery mounted in the butt stock of the weapon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Prototype Productions, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric F. Cabahug, James S. Dodd, Ben Feldman
  • Patent number: 8141290
    Abstract: A universal accessory mount for a heavy machine gun includes an annular base adapted to be disposed concentrically over a front end of a shroud of the gun and having diametrically opposing upper and lower accessory mounting tines extending forwardly therefrom. A holding mechanism pulls a planar floor of a counterbore in the rear of the base into contact with a planar front surface of the shroud of the gun. The holding mechanism includes a pair of threaded bolts extending rearwardly from the base through respective ones of a pair of diametrically opposing bolt apertures contained in the base, and a pair of cleats, each having an opening into which a rear end portion of a respective one of the bolts is received and a respective hook adapted to grip the shroud of the gun through a respective hole in the shroud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: SureFire, LLC
    Inventors: Timothy F LaFrance, Michael D Picciotta
  • Patent number: 8141288
    Abstract: The Low Reflectivity Contact has a low coefficient of light reflection, is rugged with respect to harsh ambient environmental conditions, provides a low resistance electrical connection, and is adapted for use in quick-connect applications. Light reflectivity of the contact is minimized by the use of a conductive mesh that is used to implement the electrical contact. The weave density and wire diameter of the conductive mesh maximizes the attenuation of reflected light in the visible spectrum, yet maintains high electrical conductivity and a lack of sensitivity to contamination via the choice of materials used to implement the Low Reflectivity Contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Prototype Productions, Inc.
    Inventors: James S. Dodd, Jay Tilton, Ben Feldman
  • Patent number: 8136284
    Abstract: Adapter devices, apparatus, systems and methods of allowing a firearm to be supported by a foldable fore grip/gun handle. The fore grip gun handle can have bipod type legs that can be extendable from the handle. The fore grip handle can be just a vertical extension. The adapter can allow for the fore grip/gun handle to move from a fold back position along the bottom of the firearm so that the firearm can be easily carried, and the adapter to can allow for the handle to move down to a vertical support position beneath the firearm when the firearm is to be used. The adapter can also support a light in both a folded position and in a downwardly extended position, where light can be aimed forward, rearward to the side and/or pointed down from the firearm. The adapter can allow for a dual functioning component that can be either or both a fore grip and/or a light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Grip Pod Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph R. Moody, Joseph D. Gaddini
  • Patent number: 8127483
    Abstract: A firearm buttstock includes a buttstock body having first, second and third passages. A transfer member is received in the second passage and a retaining member is received in the third passage. A firearm is also disclosed that has a receiver extension. The firearm buttstock can be supported on the firearm such that the receiver extension is received within the first passage. A method of assembling a firearm buttstock assembly is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Abrams Airborne Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric S. Kincel
  • Patent number: 8122635
    Abstract: A shotgun forearm-stock shot shell carrier, for storing multiples of shotgun shells and quickly releasing the same for hand loading into a shotgun magazine or chamber. Improved efficiency and speed of loading shotgun shells may be achieved by a shotgun forearm-stock shot shell carrier, which may comprise one or multiple spring-and-follower-tensioned carrier cavities, integrated into a forearm stock having, in one embodiment, a spring steel shell retainer, such that shot shells inserted into a carrier are securely stacked end-to-end and held until the retainer is physically displaced. In one embodiment, manually displacing a thumb tab, such that it is relieved of providing counter pressure to the spring-and-follower assembly, allows the spring-and-follower assembly to force shot shells out of a carrier's cavity for loading into a shotgun or evacuating the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Krow Innovation, LLC
    Inventor: Reme Alberto Pullicar
  • Patent number: 8117958
    Abstract: A semi-automatic or automatic rifle is provided the rifle having: a receiver having a hand guard portion; a barrel having a bore, the bore removably connected to the receiver, the hand guard portion surrounding at least a portion of the barrel; a gas block having a forward end and a rearward end aligned with the barrel; a sleeve removably secured to the forward end of the gas block; a piston slidably received within the gas block, wherein the gas block and the sleeve fluidly couple the piston to the bore of the barrel; wherein an increase in pressure in the bore of the barrel causes the piston to move away from the sleeve; and wherein the sleeve and the piston are each capable of being removed from the rifle through the forward end of the gas block without removing the gas block from the rifle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Colt Defense LLC
    Inventors: Paul Hochstrate, Laurance Robbins, Arthur F. Daigle
  • Patent number: 8104218
    Abstract: A firearm accessory mounting rail with an integrated back up sight system including an elongated Picatinny rail having longitudinally spaced apart first and second end regions and a transverse profile. A first sight element has a visual marker substantially centrally positioned. A second sight element has laterally spaced apart visual markers. A substantially centered longitudinal channel extends along the upper surface of the rail between the first and second sight elements. The firearm may be sighted by visually aligning the marker of the first sight element between the markers of the second sight element, the visual alignment being at least partially through the longitudinal channel. The sight elements may be defined completely within the transverse profile of the rail so as not to interfere with the normal attachment of any accessories to the rail and may be adjustable for windage and/or elevation. The visual markers may be illuminated by light gathering fiber optic or tritium elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Richard J. McCann
  • Patent number: 8091265
    Abstract: An improved floating rail system for mounting accessories on a firearm having a barrel including a chassis and a clamp adapted to attach the chassis about the barrel of the firearm. A plurality of elongate accessory mounting rails are attached to the chassis and extend parallel to an axis of the barrel. The accessory mounting rails are supported in the chassis radially spread apart from the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Wilcox Industries Corp.
    Inventors: James W. Teetzel, Jesse T. Bodwell
  • Patent number: 8087193
    Abstract: A buttpad assembly for use on a firearm includes a base wall, a cushion body and a guard element. A firearm buttstock assembly is also included that has a buttstock body and a buttpad assembly. A method of assembling a firearm buttstock assembly is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Abrams Airborne Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric S. Kincel
  • Patent number: 8069603
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods of canting firearms such as rifles relative to fore grip having extendable and expanded legs. One version allows for a rocking and canting of the firearm by pivotally attaching an upper portion of the expanded legs. Another version allows for a separate canting member to be clamped to both the upper portion of a vertical fore grip and to the lower mounting rail of the firearm. The canting member has portions that cant (move to the left or to the right) relative to one another. An operator can cant the firearm in a free-state or to fixed positions as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Grip Pod Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph R. Moody, Joseph D. Gaddini
  • Publication number: 20110289812
    Abstract: A wraparound gun grip comprises a substantially flat continuous flexible sheet, the substantially flat continuous flexible sheet having a first side and a second side, the first side for adhering to a grip of a gun and the second side for providing improved gripping to a user of the gun, the substantially flat continuous flexible sheet cut to fit the gun's model. The wraparound gun grip is capable of being placed onto the gun by wrapping the wraparound gun grip around the factory grip of the gun. The wraparound gun grip includes one or more finger strips which can either be cut to size or tucked in. The second side can achieve increased friction by including abrading particles thereon (e.g., using sandpaper or grip tape). Alternatively, the grip side can be made from an elastomer, such as a synthetic rubber, or other material with the property of viscoelasticity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: TALON GRIPS
    Inventor: Derik Losinger
  • Patent number: 8056277
    Abstract: A weapon grip assembly for attachment to a forward portion of a weapon is provided. The invention includes a base assembly supported for operative engagement by a handle. The base assembly includes clamps adapted to be secured to a forward portion of the weapon and further includes a post having a clamp end adapted to retain the clamps for pivot motion with respect thereto. The post of the base assembly is received within a bore of the handle, a mandrel being interposed between the handle and the clamps of the base assembly. As the base assembly is drawn into the handle, by rotation of the handle about the post of the base assembly, the mandrel receives the clamp end of the post, with an upper free surface thereof engaging the clamps for pivoted closure about a portion of the weapon in furtherance of securing the weapon grip assembly thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: R/M Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd Griffin
  • Publication number: 20110252687
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods of canting firearms such as rifles relative to fore grip having extendable and expanded legs. One version allows for a rocking and canting of the firearm by pivotally attaching an upper portion of the expanded legs. Another version allows for a separate canting member to be clamped to both the upper portion of a vertical fore grip and to the lower mounting rail of the firearm. The canting member has portions that cant (move to the left or to the right) relative to one another. An operator can cant the firearm in a free-state or to fixed positions as desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventors: Joseph R. Moody, Joseph D. Gaddini
  • Patent number: 8028457
    Abstract: Adapter devices, apparatus, systems and methods of allowing a firearm to be supported by a foldable fore grip/gun handle. The fore grip gun handle can have bipod type legs that can be extendable from the handle. The fore grip handle can be just a vertical extension. The adapter can allow for the fore grip/gun handle to move from a fold back position along the bottom of the firearm so that the firearm can be easily carried, and the adapter to can allow for the handle to move down to a vertical support position beneath the firearm when the firearm is to be used. The adapter can also support a light in both a folded position and in a downwardly extended position, where light can be aimed forward, rearward to the side and/or pointed down from the firearm. The adapter can allow for a dual functioning component that can be either or both a fore grip and/or a light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Grip Pod Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Joseph R. Moody, Joseph D. Gaddini
  • Patent number: 8020334
    Abstract: Accessory mounting structure for securing accessory mounting rails to the barrel or other forward structure of a weapon comprises cooperatively shaped mounting ring halves that are secured to another over the barrel of the weapon. Accessory mounting rails are then secured to the mounting rings. Where the weapon is a grenade launcher, a quick-reload mechanism may additionally be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Tactical Ordnance Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Ernest Delmonico
  • Patent number: 7997020
    Abstract: A firearm having a receiver housing an action-cycling mechanism, a barrel having a muzzle opening on a distal end, a shroud coaxially surrounding at least a portion of the barrel, the shroud having a distal portion extending beyond the muzzle opening defining a shroud front region having a distal end portion, a proximal portion extending proximally from the muzzle opening defining an annular region between the barrel and shroud, a front wall disposed at the distal end portion of the shroud, the front wall having an opening to allow passage of a projectile fired from the gun barrel, a firewall disposed in the annular region of the proximal portion of the shroud, the firewall moveable relative to the gun barrel between a forward, at-rest position, and a rearward, compressed position, the firewall mechanically engaged with the action cycling mechanism, and heat-dissipating fins in the annular region extending longitudinally along, and radially outward from, the gun barrel to the shroud, the fins defining channel
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventor: John K. Brixius
  • Patent number: 7992336
    Abstract: A gunstock including a barrel brace and a pistol grip projecting downwardly from the rear of the barrel brace. An X-shaped crosspiece projects rearwardly from the pistol grip. A butt projects rearwardly from the crosspiece. A handle projects forwardly from the bottom of the pistol grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventor: David Anthony Phillips
  • Patent number: 7987625
    Abstract: Devices, and methods of extending legs from vertical fore grip handles on firearms, such as rifles, to different height positions. The vertical fore grip can include expandable bipod legs. The legs can be individually extended to different lengths by moving telescoping rod members in leg housings from retracted positions to extended positions. A lever switch can allow for the legs to be locked into the different extended positions, and depressing the switch can allow for the legs to go back to the retracted positions. Anti-rotation pins and slots can prevent the telescoping members from rotating relative to the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Grip Pod Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph R. Moody, Joseph D. Gaddini
  • Patent number: 7987623
    Abstract: Adapter devices, apparatus, systems and methods of allowing a firearm to be supported by a foldable fore grip/gun handle. The fore grip gun handle can have bipod type legs that can be extendable from the handle. The fore grip handle can be just a vertical extension. The adapter can allow for the fore grip/gun handle to move from a fold back position along the bottom of the firearm so that the firearm can be easily carried, and the adapter to can allow for the handle to move down to a vertical support position beneath the firearm when the firearm is to be used. The adapter can also support a light in both a folded position and in a downwardly extended position, where light can be aimed forward, rearward to the side and/or pointed down from the firearm. The adapter can allow for a dual functioning component that can be either or both a fore grip and/or a light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Grip Pod Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph R. Moody, Joseph D. Gaddini, Mark Best
  • Publication number: 20110179688
    Abstract: A system and method for adapting a vertical fore grip to a user. In one embodiment, a system for adapting a vertical fore grip to a user can be provided. The system can include a vertical fore grip configured to adjustably attach to a firearm; a grip extension configured to modify the vertical fore grip, wherein the grip extension is further configured to mount at least one accessory; and a bolt assembly for adjustably attaching the grip extension to the vertical fore grip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Applicant: Daniel Defense, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald B. Ash, JR., Eric M. Rice
  • Publication number: 20110173862
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention comprise a tool that can be configured for use as the grip of a firearm. In one embodiment, the tool comprises a handle part and a tooling part coupled to the handle part. The tooling part can be configured to receive one or more end effectors. The handle part can comprise one or more elongated sections on which are disposed a handle body, where in one construction the elongated sections are interleaved in a manner that permits the handle body to move amongst a plurality of working configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventor: Nicholas Williams
  • Publication number: 20110167698
    Abstract: A firearm grip sleeve with retention feature has a body including a central bore and a meeting element. The mating element is connected to a mating feature on the frame of a firearm. The mating element is connected to a mating feature on the frame of a firearm. The mating element prevents undesirable movement of the body with respect to the firearm while the mating feature is connected to the mating element. The mating element may prevent axial movement and upward longitudinal movement of the body. The firearm may include a removable back strap insert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: Patrick Leonard Hoguc
  • Publication number: 20110167699
    Abstract: A weapon grip assembly for attachment to a forward portion of a weapon is provided. The invention includes a base assembly supported for operative engagement by a handle. The base assembly includes clamps adapted to be secured to a forward portion of the weapon and further includes a post having a clamp end adapted to retain the clamps for pivot motion with respect thereto. The post of the base assembly is received within a bore of the handle, a mandrel being interposed between the handle and the clamps of the base assembly. As the base assembly is drawn into the handle, by rotation of the handle about the post of the base assembly, the mandrel receives the clamp end of the post, with an upper free surface thereof engaging the clamps for pivoted closure about a portion of the weapon in furtherance of securing the weapon grip assembly thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: Todd Griffin
  • Patent number: 7966760
    Abstract: The present invention is a modular stock system for rifles. The system replaces the rifle's buffer tube with a modified one containing a mount for a constant cheek weld and a rail track for adjustment. A stock module then mounts on the replacement buffer tube. The stock module is interchangeable depending on the user's needs. Various configurations of the stock module are discussed, including adjustable stocks, fixed stocks, and specialized stocks. The stock module may be made even further modular by the addition of rail system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventors: Richard Mark Fitzpatrick, Stephen Charles Hines
  • Patent number: 7954271
    Abstract: A monopod for a firearm is disclosed. The monopod has a body and a leg that can extend from the body. The monopod may fit into a pistol grip of a firearm, such as a rifle. Once installed, the leg of the monopod may be extended from the pistol grip of the firearm and secured by a pin. When the leg is retracted into the body, the leg is kept in place by the pin, which opposes a force provided by a constant force spring. The monopod may be used by a user to stabilize the firearm on a surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Krow Innovation, LLC
    Inventors: James K. Bentley, Ryan T. Cowgill
  • Patent number: 7954270
    Abstract: A mounting rail for a firearm is disclosed. The mounting rail may be a picatinny rail, a weaver rail, or the like, which allows tools such as lights or lasers to be attached to a firearm. The mounting rail is reversible and may be mounted within a portion of the firearm, such as the forend. The other side of the rail may match the finish and texture of the firearm so that the mounting rail is hidden from view when reversed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Krow Innovation, LLC
    Inventor: James K. Bentley
  • Patent number: 7941959
    Abstract: A modular integrated rail system for a firearm includes an upper hand guard having a dovetail rail extending longitudinally between the forward end and the rearward end thereof. The rearward end of the upper hand guard includes a clamp that removably secures the upper hand guard to the barrel nut of the firearm. The rearward end of the upper hand guard and the clamp include clamping surfaces configured to cooperatively engage the outer surface of the barrel nut. The upper hand guard further includes mounting channels that are used to mount accessories, such as a lower hand guard or a grenade launcher, to the upper hand guard. The rear end of the upper hand guard includes alignment tabs for automatically aligning the dovetail rail of the upper hand guard with the dovetail rail of the upper receiver during mounting. The tabs also prevent rotation of the rail system relative to the upper receiver during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventor: Richard E. Swan
  • Publication number: 20110107643
    Abstract: The firearm fore grip for use with a firearm having a barrel extending along a bore axis and an attachment rail operatively associated with the barrel and extending along the bore axis. The firearm fore grip comprises a base configured to engage an attachment rail, the base having a leading and a trailing end. A first hand contact surface is configured to extend substantially parallel to the attachment rail from the leading end of the base. A second hand contact surface extends from the first hand contact surface intermediate a leading and trailing ends of the base at an obtuse angle relative to the first hand contact surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: MAGPUL INDUSTRIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Richard Fitzpatrick, Michael T. Mayberry, Travis Darran Haley, Eric Christopher Burt, Brian Abbott, Mike Morgan
  • Patent number: 7937875
    Abstract: An adjustable firearm grip which is adaptable for use on a wide range of firearm types and barrel sizes. The adjustable firearm grip generally includes a handgrip including an upper opening and a lower opening. A passageway extends from the upper opening to the lower opening and includes a connector slidably positioned therein. A strap is provided for extending around a firearm, wherein both ends of the strap are each connected to the connector and the strap extends upwardly from the upper opening of the handgrip. A strap bolt and adjustment knob are threadably attached to the connector. The adjustable firearm grip may be attached to a firearm by placing the strap around the firearm's barrel at any location and then turning the adjustment knob to tighten the strap for a firm fit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventor: David J. Berg
  • Patent number: 7938055
    Abstract: A semi-automatic or automatic rifle is provided. The semi-automatic or automatic rifle includes a receiver having an integral hand guard portion, a barrel having a bore. The bore is removably connected to the receiver, the hand guard portion extending over and surrounding the barrel, an indirect gas operating system has a gas block and a piston. The gas block has a cylinder, the gas block is fitted to the barrel, the cylinder is in communication with the bore. The piston has a piston end and a striking end, the piston end is fitted to the cylinder and has a bolt carrier having a striking surface. When a cartridge is fired, gas displaces the piston end and causes the striking end to strike the striking surface displacing the bolt assembly, wherein, the cylinder and the piston are together removable as an assembly from the firearm without disassembly of the rifle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Colt Defense LLC
    Inventors: Paul Hochstrate, Laurance Robbins, Arthur F. Daigle
  • Patent number: 7937874
    Abstract: A firearm grip, a firearm grip construction set and related methods are disclosed. An example firearm grip includes a grip portion, which includes a wall covering at least a portion of a magazine and a plurality of ribs. The firearm grip also has a first grip shell having a plurality of first lateral edges, second grip shell having a plurality of second lateral edges, and a grip back having a top edge and a bottom edge. With the example firearm grip, at least one of the first grip shell or the second grip shell is exchangeable. In addition, at least one of the first grip shell, the second grip shell or the grip back is coupled to the grip portion with an undercut tongue and groove connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Heckler & Koch GmbH
    Inventor: Marc Roth
  • Publication number: 20110061283
    Abstract: An attachment system for mounting an accessory device to a longitudinal rail along the frame and forwardly of a trigger guard; said rail configured with at least two longitudinal grooves, one along each side of the rail, and further configured with a transverse slot in the surface of the rail; an accessory including a pair of longitudinal tongues, said tongues complimenting the longitudinal grooves for retaining the accessory device on the rail; a compression spring in a recess area formed in said accessory upwardly biasing a latch, on the accessory device housing and pivoting on a pivot pin; said latch containing a transversely disposed elongated protuberance having a width slightly less than the transverse slot of said rail for being received therein that co-acts with the transverse slot in said rail to prevent further longitudinal movement of the accessory device along the rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Applicant: NiteScout LLC
    Inventors: Santuccio Cavallo, Robert Frank Cavallo
  • Patent number: 7900390
    Abstract: Devices, and methods of attaching accessory mounts to vertical fore grip handles on firearms, such as rifles. The accessory mounts can be molded to extend off of the handles. The accessory mounts can attach to the handles by interlocking plugs and slots. The accessory mount can have rails so that an accessory can attach to the rails on the accessory mount. The accessory can include lights, lasers, bayonets, sights, scopes, and the like. The vertical fore grip can be an elongated handle fixed to the firearm. The vertical fore grip can be an elongated handle that is detachable from beneath rails on the firearm. The vertical fore grip can include expandable bipod legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Grip Pod Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph R. Moody, Joseph D. Gaddini
  • Publication number: 20110047850
    Abstract: A modular multi-accessory foregrip configured to mount on a rail on a weapon. The modular foregrip includes a grip assembly and a tang or center shaft. The grip assembly configured to be removably coupled with the tang. In some embodiments, the modular foregrip having a power supply disposed in the tang. In some embodiments, the grip assembly comprising two or more component grips, each with a different accessory. In some embodiments, one of the grips has a switch to control power in an accessory in that grip and a second switch to control power to an accessory in another grip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2008
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: CRIMSON TRACE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jon Rievley, Lewis Danielson
  • Publication number: 20110047851
    Abstract: A sight assembly for a firearm includes a foregrip removably attachable to the firearm, a first light source disposed within the foregrip, and a different second light source disposed within the foregrip. The assembly also includes a power source electrically connected to the first and second light sources, and a control circuit configured to control activation of the first and second light sources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: LaserMax, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Mock, Christopher Gagliano, Richard Currier, Susan Houde-Walter, William R. Houde-Walter
  • Patent number: 7891126
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods of canting firearms such as rifles relative to fore grip having extendable and expanded legs. One version allows for a rocking and canting of the firearm by pivotally attaching an upper portion of the expanded legs. Another version allows for a separate canting member to be clamped to both the upper portion of a vertical fore grip and to the lower mounting rail of the firearm. The canting member has portions that cant (move to the left or to the right) relative to one another. An operator can cant the firearm in a free-state or to fixed positions as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Grip Pod Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph R. Moody, Joseph D. Gaddini
  • Patent number: 7861452
    Abstract: Devices, and methods of extending legs from vertical fore grip handles on firearms, such as rifles, to different height positions. The vertical fore grip can include expandable bipod legs. The legs can be individually extended to different lengths by moving telescoping rod members in leg housings from retracted positions to extended positions. A lever switch can allow for the legs to be locked into the different extended positions, and depressing the switch can allow for the legs to go back to the retracted positions. Anti-rotation pins and slots can prevent the telescoping members from rotating relative to the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Grip Pods Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph R. Moody, Joseph D. Gaddini
  • Patent number: 7861451
    Abstract: Adapter devices, apparatus, systems and methods of allowing a firearm to be supported by a foldable fore grip/gun handle. The fore grip gun handle can have bipod type legs that can be extendable from the handle. The fore grip handle can be just a vertical extension. The adapter can allow for the fore grip/gun handle to move from a fold back position along the bottom of the firearm so that the firearm can be easily carried, and the adapter to can allow for the handle to move down to a vertical support position beneath the firearm when the firearm is to be used. The adapter can also support a light in both a folded position and in a downwardly extended position, where light can be aimed forward, rearward to the side and/or pointed down from the firearm. The adapter can allow for a dual functioning component that can be either or both a fore grip and/or a light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Grip Pod Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph R. Moody, Joseph D. Gaddini
  • Publication number: 20100307043
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods of canting firearms such as rifles relative to fore grip having extendable and expanded legs. One version allows for a rocking and canting of the firearm by pivotally attaching an upper portion of the expanded legs. Another version allows for a separate canting member to be clamped to both the upper portion of a vertical fore grip and to the lower mounting rail of the firearm. The canting member has portions that cant (move to the left or to the right) relative to one another. An operator can cant the firearm in a free-state or to fixed positions as desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventors: Joseph R. Moody, Joseph D. Gaddini
  • Patent number: 7845105
    Abstract: A grip panel with removable interchangeable sliding or other type locking inserts that trap and fasten switches for firearm accessories such as white lights, lasers, invisible lasers and communication devices to the host firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Tango Down, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Cahill
  • Patent number: 7841120
    Abstract: A handgrip apparatus for firearm includes a hollow housing defining a handgrip surface and forming an enclosure. A fastener is connected to the housing for removably attaching the handgrip apparatus to a fore-end portion of a firearm. A retractable leg assembly is movable between a retracted position and an extended position and includes a pair of pivoting legs usable as a bipod support when the leg assembly is in the extended position. In one aspect, one or more switches for controlling operation of one or more electronic devices are coupled to the handgrip apparatus. One or more connectors are electrically coupled to the one or switches and are adapted to be electrically coupled to one or more electronic devices. In another aspect, a handgrip apparatus having a pivoting attachment between the fastener and the housing positions is provided. In another aspect, a handgrip apparatus includes integrated conductors in the fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Wilcox Industries Corp.
    Inventors: James W. Teetzel, Gary M. Lemire
  • Patent number: 7827719
    Abstract: A firearm with reversible backstrap and method of use. The firearm in one embodiment includes a frame defining a grip and a cavity therein, and a backstrap insert that is removably positioned in the cavity. The insert includes first and second backstrap grip surfaces that are each respectively disposed on opposite portions of the backstrap insert, such as a front portion and a rear portion in one embodiment. Preferably, the second backstrap grip surface is different than the first grip surface in some characteristic, such as thickness, profile or shape, material of construction, surface texture, etc. In one embodiment, the position of the insert may be reversed in the frame to selectively reverse the orientation of the first and second grip surfaces between front-facing and rear-facing in some embodiments to provide a user with a choice of grip surfaces. In some embodiments, this allows the user to change the grip depth of the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc.
    Inventor: James McGarry
  • Patent number: 7823315
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for substituting a different stock, or a different receiver assembly, in a long gun (e.g., a shotgun) without the use of tools by a user in the field. Applicants' preferred apparatus comprises: a long gun (e.g., an illustrated shotgun) having a stock and a receiver assembly; and an adaptor assembly which removably interconnects the stock to the receiver assembly, wherein the adaptor assembly includes: an adaptor base affixed to the receiver; an end of the stock is mounted onto the adaptor base; and a rotatable locking pin, continuously attached to the base, which can be lifted up and rotated or turned on its axis by 90° to unlock the adaptor assembly. The stock can then be pulled off the adaptor base. Upon a new stock being mounted on the adaptor base, the locking pin can be rotated back to its original orientation and pushed down to lock the adaptor assembly, whereupon the adaptor assembly interconnects the substitute stock with the receiver assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin A. Webber, Sean P Toner, Joseph A. Hoell, Jr., Thomas C. Lynch
  • Patent number: 7818910
    Abstract: The present disclosures are systems, apparatus and methods for communicating with a robot via a weapon. In one embodiment, the weapon comprises a barrel, a receiver assembly, a handgrip, and a first controller. The receiver assembly is coupled to an end of the barrel and to the handgrip. The first controller is integrated into the handgrip and inputs a first controller signal to a processing device. A transmitter receives a processing signal from the processing device according to the first controller signal. Preferably, the transmitter sends the processing signal to a robot, which responds accordingly to the received processing signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Stuart H. Young
  • Publication number: 20100263254
    Abstract: Assemblies and firearms incorporating such assemblies are provided. In this regard, a representative firearm includes an elongate removable backstrap selectively mountable to a grip of the firearm such that, when mounted thereto, an effective size of the grip is increased. A pin used for mounting the backstrap can also secure a trigger mechanism housing to the receiver of the firearm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Gaston Glock
  • Patent number: 7810270
    Abstract: A firearm butt stock with an adjustable cheek piece comprises an elongate stock base having a top, a bottom, a right side, a left side, a proximal end and a distal end. The stock base has a transverse pivot shaft near the stock base top and a transverse catch shaft spaced from the pivot shaft lengthwise of the stock base near the stock base top. A cheek piece has a proximal end and a distal end and a left and a right sidewall. The cheek piece defines a plurality of lengthwise stacked receptacles opening toward a proximal end of the cheek piece and an elongate hole having a distal and a proximal end spaced lengthwise and distal of the stacked receptacles. The stacked receptacles, the catch shaft, the elongate hole and the pivot shaft are configured so that with the pivot shaft received in the elongate hole and the pivot shaft at the distal end of the elongate hole, the catch shaft is received in one of the stacked receptacles and the cheek piece is prevented from pivoting about the pivot shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Magpul Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Richard Fitzpatrick, Michael T Mayberry
  • Patent number: 7810272
    Abstract: A firearm barrel assembly having a gun barrel with a muzzle opening on a distal end, a shroud coaxially surrounding at least a portion of the barrel, the shroud having a distal portion extending beyond the muzzle opening defining a shroud front region having a distal end portion, a proximal portion extending proximally from the muzzle opening defining an annular region between the barrel and shroud, the shroud front region and annular region in fluid communication with substantially no obstruction between the shroud front region and the annular region, and a front wall disposed at the distal end portion of the shroud. The wall has an opening to allow passage of a projectile fired from the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Inventor: John Brixius